The 50-year-old all but confirmed he will select a specialist hooker, effectively ruling Ben Hunt out of the hooking race, meaning if the Dragons number seven is selected, it will most likely be in the halves.

That means the race will come down to Broncos rake Andrew McCullough, Roosters hooker Jake Friend and Cowboys number nine, Jake Granville.

Walters told Sky Sports' Big Sports Breakfast it could depend on what happens in round 12 before a decision is made.

"We've had a good discussion around all of that and I think there are some options," Walters said.

"A Ben Hunt option at nine (is a possiblity), but being Origin and this is a long-term position we're looking for, we've got to get an established guy in there at this stage I would have thought.

"There are some good options for us in that area with McCullough and Friend and Granville also up at the Cowboys.

"All those three have got a lot of first grade matches, all of them have played in a grand final, two of them are premiership winners which is that big match experience you need at Origin level which makes that transition a little bit easier.

"But until we sit down on Monday and select the team, it's still open."

The Queensland State of Origin coach was also resigned to the fact that young Newcastle fullback Kalyn Ponga has done just about all he can do to warrant selection.

In his first season at the Knights, the 20-year-old has the most tackle-busts in the competition with 85 as well as the most kick return metres with 669.

The potential Origin debutant also has 11 try-assists and has crossed for three of his own and could be a goal-kicking option for his state on the back of assuming the duties for Newcastle.

"His form has been bloody outstanding, so it's very comforting for us as selectors to know that we have Kalyn there," Walters said.

"I think he's another player that can fill a number of positions.

"We saw him make his debut for the Cowboys on the wing in a semi-final against the Broncos and he looked like a season campaigner.

"I think it'd be a bit hard to throw him on the wing at Origin level, that would really test him.

"At this stage he can't do much more, it just depends what we come up with over the weekend.

"No doubt his future is looking bright for the Knights and at the next level, it's just a matter of when he gets his opportunity, is it going to be in game one? well, we're not quite sure."

Both State of Origin teams for game one will be announced on Monday with players having one last opportunity to press their claims in round 12.